Jordan Celebrates World Day for Cultural Diversity

Jordan Celebrates World Day for Cultural Diversity

AMMAN-------June 21, 2015--------Jordan joined the world in celebrating the World Day for Cultural Diversity for Dialogue and Development, which was adopted by the UNESCO in 2002, with a Traditional Music Evening hosted at the Odeon Theatre under the themeTHE RHYTHM OF JORDAN, TRADITION AND MODERNITY.

The evening was held under the patronage of Her Majesty Queen Noor al Hussein and organized by UNESCO Amman Office in partnership with Talal Abu-Ghazaleh Organization (TAG-Org), the National Music Conservatory, the Jordan National Orchestra Association (JOrchestra) and ROYA TV as the main media partner. The audience witnessed an unforgettable evening of traditional musical that took the audience on a journey through history and modernity.

HRH Princess Wijdan Al-Hashemi, who graciously accepted to join for the concert and for the launch of the campaign #Unite4Heritage, stated: “In a world tormented by political, competitive and sectarian conflicts where compassion for the others is constantly being replaced by hatred and bitter struggle, culture is the last resort for humans to find comfort and peace.”

HE Dr. Talal Abu-Ghazaleh, chairman of TAG-Org and JOrchestra said: "The world became one on this day through music and through sharing traditions and aspirations. We are really proud to be part of UNESCOs initiative that tells a story that we are all the same and share the same dreams."

Ms. Costanza Farina, UNESCO Representative to Jordan, highlighted that: “this event intended to recognize and celebrate Jordan’s extraordinarily rich heritage and cultural diversity for the benefit of present and future generations” and added that: “The groups performing at the event very well reflected the wealth of creative potential of different traditions in Jordan and they confirm that these differences enrich and strengthen us, they do not divide us”.

Tareq Jundi trio, Al-Rajef Society Traditional Band, the Mahabeesh Ensemble, the Rababa player Bayan Fares, Al Quds Group for Palestinian Folklore, the children’s choir of the National Music Conservatory and the musicians of JOrchestra presented their music and acts to a full house crowd.

During the event, HRH Princess Wijdan formally launched the campaign #Unite4Heritage in Jordan and invited the audience to join the campaign. Recognizing the importance of cultural heritage for all people, the campaign calls for authorities and individuals in all countries to actively join and build international support for the safeguard of cultural heritage. During the event, the public, and particularly young people, showed their support to the campaign and raised the hashtag for an impressive collective picture.